Thank you to all the attended our AIA TN SpeakUP | Advocacy & Policy Day on March 26 led by President Matt Lyle, AIA . This event was a powerful demonstration of advocacy and collaboration as participants from across Tennessee gathered to hear from policymakers and discuss what it takes to make a meaningful impact. It was a day filled with powerful conversations and meaningful dialogue. Special thank you to Risk Strategies and Dale Crow for sponsoring this event and to HASTINGS Architecture for allowing us to use their event space.
Key Highlights:
- SpeakUP featured informative sessions focused on key areas important to the profession and built environment. Experts in the field provided insights into the current state of affairs, highlighted legislation/policy priorities, and offered guidance on effective advocacy strategies.
- Topics included Affordable Housing, Third-Party Review in TN, School Safety Discussion & Codes Updates, Presentation by State Architect Ann McGauran, AIA and Special Guests Treasurer David Lillard, Comptroller Jason Mumpower, and Chris Mustain, Senior Policy Advisor with the Office of the Secretary of State. View the complete speaker line-up here.
- SpeakUP fostered networking and collaboration among advocates, organizations, and policymakers. Participants exchanged ideas, shared best practices, and formed alliances to amplify their collective voices. These connections are essential for building momentum and sustaining advocacy efforts beyond SpeakUP.
SpeakUP is just the beginning of our advocacy efforts in 2024. As we reflect on the topics we discussed, let’s commit to action and continued engagement. By staying informed, mobilizing our members, and leveraging our collective influence, we can drive meaningful policy / legislation to Positively Impact our World through the Power of Design.
Resources from SpeakUP:
Amy Gore | Policy & Research Director, ThinkTennessee
by Gina Emmanuel, AIA | Principal, CENTRIC Architecture
by Cliff Lippard | Executive Director, TACIR
Prepared by the TN Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR) in response to House Joint Resolution 139 by Representative Sparks which requested the Commission study the factors affecting housing affordability in the state. View the Draft Report.
by Chris Bainbridge and Philip Cameron from SFMO’s Codes Enforcement Dept. provided information on the Codes Update and codes enforcement as it relates to the new school safety statute passed in 2023 for K-12 facilities. View SFMO contact information.
- A rulemaking hearing is scheduled for April 29 for the Statewide Minimum Codes Update. Learn more.
- Currently, the State Fire Marshal’s office is the point of contact for any architects having questions regarding the design requirements per the 2023 K-12 school safety statute. Contact Philip Cameron in the State Fire Marshal’s Office for any questions and/or guidance. Learn more.
by Paul Marshal | Senior Director of Facilities Planning & Preparedness, TN Higher Education Commission
Get Involved:
Interested in joining the advocacy movement? Visit our advocacy page to learn more about upcoming events, advocacy opportunities, and ways to take action. Together, we can drive change.
Thank you to all who participated in SpeakUP and contributed to its success. Your dedication and passion are driving forces for positive change in our state.